Date set for BP Charity Pro-Am 5th anniversary

Launched five years ago by BP in order to support children with special education needs, the event has grown into one of the leading Pro-Am tournaments in the UAE with 200 amateur and professional golfers competing from across Europe and the Gulf, including three UAE National teams.

A record 50 amateur teams, including UAE National youth and adult teams selected by the UAE Golfing Association, will compete alongside 30 UAE-based and 20 overseas professionals on the world-class ADGC National Course.

"Our target this year is to raise Dh200,000 or more for special needs schools in Abu Dhabi. We aspire to benefit local communities wherever we are present and believe this money will make a real difference for the children at the Future Centre and the ILA Special Care Centre," said David Dalton, general manager of BP Abu Dhabi.

The children from the schools are themselves involved in the fund raising activities through a painting competition. The paintings will be auctioned off at a special prize giving gala dinner at the Crown Plaza Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

The overall winning amateur team in BP Charity pro-am will also qualify for the Qatar Masters Pro-Am Tournament taking place early in 2005. Last year's winners, ADMA OPCO, went on to take second place in the 2004 event in Doha, raising hopes for this year's competitors.

The initial response for sponsors and teams has been overwhelming with Al Habtoor, Chaine des Rotisseurs, Qatar Masters and once again pledging their support as the main sponsors. Confirmed support sponsors for the tournament include British Airways, Crowne Plaza Hotel, GMP, Crystal Gallery, Fast Rent a Car and professional auctioneers Richie Bros who will conduct the painting auction.

BP is a regular supporter of educational, environmental and educational endeavours in the region and since 2000 has run a self development programme for GCC teenagers based in the northern emirates called BP Young Adventurers.